Pakistan and China have agreed to deepen bilateral cooperation in the health sector, focusing on pharmaceutical manufacturing, medical technology, and telemedicine, following a highlevel meeting between Federal Health Minister Dr. Mustafa Kamal and his Chinese counterpart on the sidelines of the SCO Health Conference.
The meeting reaffirmed the close and timetested relationship between the two countries, with both sides recalling their mutual support during global challenges, particularly the COVID19 pandemic. Dr. Kamal acknowledged China’s timely assistance during the crisis, especially in vaccine supply, and conveyed Pakistan’s appreciation on behalf of its government and people.
Emphasising opportunities for Chinese investment, Dr. Kamal invited pharmaceutical and medical device companies from China to explore ventures in Pakistan. He highlighted that the majority of Pakistan’s pharmaceutical industry depends on Chinese raw materials and called for technology transfer, especially for the local production of Active Pharmaceutical Ingredients (APIs).
He underscored Pakistan’s interest in joint ventures and publicprivate partnerships to build domestic manufacturing capacity. ‘There are immense opportunities in Pakistan’s health sector, particularly in pharmaceutical production and telemedicine,’ Dr. Kamal stated.
On the digital health front, the Minister pointed to telemedicine as a key strategy for bridging healthcare access gaps. He expressed Pakistan’s willingness to adopt China’s successful models to enhance remote care delivery.
Dr. Kamal also proposed capacitybuilding initiatives for the Drug Regulatory Authority of Pakistan (DRAP), suggesting training exchanges with Chinese regulatory bodies to strengthen oversight and standards in Pakistan’s health industry.
In response, the Chinese Health Minister welcomed Pakistan’s proposals and affirmed China’s readiness to collaborate more closely in health innovation, regulation, and investment. Both sides agreed to appoint focal persons to develop a framework for actionable cooperation, with an emphasis on traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), research, training, and institutional linkages.
The meeting concluded with a joint commitment to reinforce strategic cooperation in health, reflecting the broader PakistanChina allweather partnership.